Transient global amnesia

Transient Global Amnesia (TGA)

Transient Global Amnesia (TGA) is a temporary memory disorder primarily affecting middle-aged and elderly individuals. It is characterized by sudden, short-term memory loss that lasts from several hours to up to 24 hours. During an episode, the individual remains alert, intellectually active, and aware of their identity but may repeatedly ask questions about the present situation due to the inability to retain new information.

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Brain MRI highlighting areas associated with TGA.

Characteristics

TGA episodes are marked by:

• Sudden onset of memory loss, unable to form new memories
• Retention of personal identity despite memory loss
• No loss of general cognitive skills
• Resolution of symptoms within 24 hours

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of TGA is unknown, but it may be related to:

• Temporary disruption in blood flow to the brain
• Epileptic seizures
• Migraine headaches
• Strenuous physical activity or sudden immersion in cold or hot water

Symptoms

During a TGA episode, symptoms include:

• Sudden and profound loss of recent memory
• Repeated questioning due to the inability to retain new information
• Mild confusion or bewilderment
• Otherwise normal behavior and cognition

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of TGA primarily involves ruling out other causes of amnesia through:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Neurological tests to assess memory and cognitive function
• Imaging tests such as MRI to rule out other brain disorders

Treatment and Management

There is no specific treatment for TGA, as episodes are self-limiting and resolve within 24 hours. Management focuses on:

• Observation and monitoring until symptoms resolve
• Reassuring the patient and family members about the benign nature of the condition

Prognosis

TGA has a good prognosis. Most individuals recover completely after an episode and are unlikely to experience significant long-term memory problems. However, a small percentage may have recurrent episodes.

See Also

• Amnesia
• Memory disorder
• Cerebrovascular accident
• Migraine

References

• Fisher, C.M., & Adams, R.D. (1964). Transient Global Amnesia.
• Hodges, J.R., & Warlow, C.P. (1990). The aetiology of transient global amnesia.
• Quinette, P., et al. (2006). Long-term outcome in patients with transient global amnesia.

External Links

• Mayo Clinic: Transient Global Amnesia
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Transient Global Amnesia

Transient global amnesia Resources
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